I suppose you can call it "software" but I like to think of the company providing the service as a platform. You log onto their platform and perform the notarization within their system. The way it is set up, the notary is never going to have software to load onto their own computer and perform a notarization. The state requires us to operate through an approved platform provider. The platform provider is required by the state to maintain a log. The notary is also required to maintain their own log. The requirements for the information to be logged is very specific. I have seen 2 platforms so far and they both had a means of downloading the log.

It is late and I am tired so I'm just going to throw this out there. I barely understand the technical end of it but I am registered with Identrust. (Google it) When I place my stamp the platform connects with Indentrust and I have to enter my password before the document is sealed. If the platform you are talking about does not do that it is NOT legit...run.

As to the 50%, your cost is pretty low and a well designed platform will allow for a fast signing so you might want to evaluate your fee based on volume if it exist. The biggest problem you run into is the signer's technology and internet connection is frequently not up to snuff. That can cost you time and heartache.

A lot of responsibility is placed on the notary. Be careful. That said, it is the future. It is coming and no matter how hard you drag your heals, it will happen. Thousands of documents are notarized every day that have nothing to do with the mortgage business. Get on board but be smart about it.